The Blizzard of ’26: Was That Philadelphia’s Final Winter Bow?
Whether you’re celebrating the snow or counting down to Opening Day at Citizens Bank Park, taking twenty minutes to check your HVAC today will prevent a “no-heat” emergency tomorrow.
Philadelphia just dug itself out of one for the record books. The “Blizzard of ’26” dumped 14 inches at the Philadelphia International Airport and upwards of 16 to 22 inches in neighborhoods like Northeast Philly and Langhorne. It was our biggest storm in a decade, officially pushing this season into the top 20 snowiest winters in city history.
But as the shovels go back into the garage, the big question remains: Are we done?
The Verdict: Don’t Put Away the Salt Just Yet
While we all want to think spring is around the corner, history and current forecasts suggest staying vigilant:
- The Records: Historically, Philadelphia has seen significant snow as late as April (like the 19.4 inches in April 1915).
- The Forecast: Although milder temperatures are expected to help melt the leftovers this week, winter officially lasts until March 20, 2026. Experts warn that while the “big one” might be behind us, clippers and wintry mixes often linger through March.
Post-Blizzard HVAC Checklist: Protecting Your Comfort
Your heating system just ran a marathon. To ensure it survives the rest of the season and transitions smoothly into spring, follow these essential steps:
- Clear the Perimeter: Check your outdoor unit (heat pump or AC condenser). Heavy drifts can block airflow, forcing the system to overheat or shut down. Use a broom to gently clear snow from the top and sides—never use a shovel, which can damage the delicate fins.
- Unblock the Vents: For those with high-efficiency furnaces, ensure the white PVC intake and exhaust pipes on the side of your house aren’t buried. Blocked vents can cause carbon monoxide to back up into your home or trigger a system safety lockout.
- Swap the Filter: Your system likely ran non-stop during the blizzard. A fresh air filter is the cheapest way to restore efficiency and reduce strain on the blower motor after a period of heavy use.
- Listen for “New” Noises: Ice can sometimes freeze on the fan blades of outdoor units, causing a loud “thumping” or grinding sound. If you hear anything unusual, schedule a professional inspection before the next cold snap.
Whether you’re celebrating the snow or counting down to Opening Day at Citizens Bank Park, taking twenty minutes to check your HVAC today will prevent a “no-heat” emergency tomorrow.
Regardless of what type of heating system you have, if you live in Philadelphia, Bucks or Montgomery County, the HVAC Philly team can provide an affordable solution. Contact us today at 215-725-6111 to learn about all of our options and solutions for your heater repair, maintenance, and installation service.
